Edematogenic, hemorrhagic, and myonecrotic effects of the Pseudocerastes persicus venom in mice

초록

Snakebites represent a significant public health concern in Iran, where the Persian horned viper (Pseudocerastes persicus) is endemic. This study aimed to evaluate, for the first time, the local pathological effects of its venom in mice. Paw edema was induced in different groups (n = 6 in each group) by intraplantar injection of venom (10, 50, and 100 µg/paw). Increase in paw thickness (%) was measured using a digital caliper over time. Pathological changes (blood cell extravasation, edema, and leukocyte infiltration at the injection site) were assessed via hematoxylin and eosin staining. Pentavalent snake antivenoms (RVSRI and PSA) were tested by preincubation with venom or intraperitoneal administration pre-or post-exposure. Subcutaneous injections of the Pseudocerastes persicus crude venom 10-100 µg/paw resulted in marked dose-dependent paw edema in mice. As a whole, both antivenoms diluted in normal saline (100 µl) significantly reduced paw edema, and hemorrhagic and histological properties were reduced when incubated with the challenge dose (50 µg) for 30 minutes. However, when infused intraperitoneally, 10 minutes before or immediately after venom exposure, both failed to neutralize the pathological changes. In parallel settings, intramuscular and subcutaneous injections of the venom (50 µg) into the gastrocnemius muscle and the dorsal areas of anesthetized mice caused severe changes. According to our preliminary study, this venom exhibits extreme edematogenic, hemorrhagic, and myonecrotic effects, necessitating further investigation to develop effective treatment strategies for envenomation. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for introducing effective antivenoms and, if necessary, new therapeutic modalities, given economic constraints and the need for therapeutic interventions in the management of snakebites. © 2026, Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center at Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences. All rights reserved.

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